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Fri, 10 Jul 2015 19:52:42 +0000en-UShourly1https://wordpress.org/?v=4.5.10Former LMU Star Anthony Ireland is Battling to Make the NBAhttp://www.hoopsscoop.com/anthony-ireland-battling-make-nba/
http://www.hoopsscoop.com/anthony-ireland-battling-make-nba/#respondTue, 15 Jul 2014 02:28:10 +0000http://www.hoopsscoop.com/?p=1834After going undrafted in the 2014 NBA Draft, Anthony Ireland is now competing for a roster spot on the Los Angeles Lakers summer league team, with hopes of accomplishing his lifelong dream – making it into the NBA. “I just want to show that I’m capable of guarding full court and that I can make other players around […]

]]>After going undrafted in the 2014 NBA Draft, Anthony Ireland is now competing for a roster spot on the Los Angeles Lakers summer league team, with hopes of accomplishing his lifelong dream – making it into the NBA.

“I just want to show that I’m capable of guarding full court and that I can make other players around me better.” Ireland told HoopsScoop after finishing a team practice on Monday morning.

“When I come in the game I’m trying to make an impact immediately. I just want to change the tempo and get guys open shots and just play my role. I feel like I’ve done a really good job of showing that so far.”

The senior point guard from Loyola Marymount University is coming off another impressive season, holding averages of 18.6 points, 5.4 assists and 1.7 steals per game which were all team highs. He also earned First-Team WCC All-Conference honors this year as well as the WCC Player of the Week Award twice.

Even though the Lakers currently have three point guards on the roster including rookie Jordan Clarkson who plays both guard positions, bringing in a guy like Ireland to fill out the depth chart would be beneficial for the team, given Steve Nash’s injury issues over the last few years.

Although undersized at 5-10, Ireland has proven to be a lights out scorer during his four year tenure with LMU, leading the team in points per game for the last 3 seasons while shooting a respectable 34.5 percent from behind the arc.

“I’m an aggressive point guard that can come in and provide a spark off of the bench… I just want to play my role and continue to increase my level of play every time I step on the court.”

Hit me up on Twitter @fieldhoops and lets talk NBA, College Basketball or anything basketball related!

]]>http://www.hoopsscoop.com/anthony-ireland-battling-make-nba/feed/02015 NBA Mock Draft: Post NBA Draft Editionhttp://www.hoopsscoop.com/2015-nba-mock-draft/
http://www.hoopsscoop.com/2015-nba-mock-draft/#respondMon, 30 Jun 2014 01:46:25 +0000http://www.hoopsscoop.com/?p=1640With the 2014 NBA Draft officially over, why not project where some of the top prospects in next year’s draft could go? And while this upcoming draft may not be filled with as many star-studded players compared to last year, it does hold a remarkable number of elite big men, with the potential to become future stars in a league […]

]]>With the 2014 NBA Draft officially over, why not project where some of the top prospects in next year’s draft could go?

And while this upcoming draft may not be filled with as many star-studded players compared to last year, it does hold a remarkable number of elite big men, with the potential to become future stars in a league that’s particularly deprived in that position.

So without further ado, let me go ahead and introduce you to the crop of prospects headlining the 2015 NBA Draft.

1. Milwaukee Bucks: Jahlil Okafor, Duke, 6’11”, C

The powerful big man from Chicago already has the size (270 lbs.) to compete with NBA centers from day one. And while his athleticism leaves much to be desired, he makes up for it with an arsenal of low post moves that allow him to score with ease.

2. Philadelphia 76ers: Emmanuel Mudiay, SMU, 6’5″, PG

Speedy floor general that uses his super hero like athleticism to tower over the toughest defenders. Just imagine a taller version of Thunder point guard Russell Westbrook.

3. Orlando Magic: Cliff Alexander, Kansas, 6’9″, PF

Hard nosed power forward that explodes over opponents by using his insane hops. He’s also an excellent defender, swatting shots away and grabbing rebounds regularly.

4. Utah Jazz: Kelly Oubre, Kansas, 6’7″, SF

Explosive scorer that has the ability to drain shots from behind the perimeter or slash inside and throw down thunderous dunks. He recently scored 52 points in a game, a record for his high school.

5. Boston Celtics: Myles Turner, Texas, 7’0″, PF/C

Unique stretch four that can drain three pointers or post up and power his way inside. Although he’s incredibly skilled, he still needs to bulk up if he’s to succeed against larger big men in college.

6. Los Angeles Lakers: Stanley Johnson, Arizona, 6’7″, SF

Lengthy wing that doesn’t shy away from contact and drives over defenders like a bull. Considered more of a point forward since he moves the ball fluidly and can rack up assists in a hurry.

7. Sacramento Kings: Karl Towns, Kentucky, 7’1″, C

Long big man with an extremely skilled offensive game. Needs to develop more toughness, as he tends to shy away from banging in the paint.

8. Detroit Pistons: Brice Johnson, UNC, 6’9″, PF

Johnson didn’t play much last year since he was stuck behind James McAdoo in the frontcourt. He possesses extreme athleticism and length, however it remains to be seen if he can put it all together.

9. Cleveland Cavaliers: Trey Lyles, Kentucky, 6’9″, PF

Bruising power forward that makes up for his lack of athleticism with a fluid offensive game. Reminds many scouts of a Carlos Boozer type player that wreaks havoc offensively but can be a liability on defense.

10. New Orleans Pelicans: Wayne Selden, Kansas, 6’5″, SG

Minutes were sparse for Selden, who was stuck behind Andrew Wiggins for the majority of the year. His size and athleticism alone should allow him to put up big numbers this season.

11. New York Knicks: Chris Walker, Florida, 6’9″, PF/SF

Eligibility issues haunted Walker for the majority of the year, causing him to miss a good chunk of games. Look for him to explode on draft boards next season, as his explosiveness and quickness will be too tough for most opposing forwards to contain.

12. Denver Nuggets: Mario Hezonja, Croatia, 6’6″, SG

One of the top international prospects in his class, possessing excellent court vision, superb athleticism and a lethal three point jumper.

Extremely athletic and active defender that can cause problems for opponents. Needs to improve his shooting touch if he’s to become an exceptional offensive player though.

14. Phoenix Suns: Montrezl Harrell, Louisville, 6’8″, PF

Harrell emerged onto draft boards last season after showcasing his insane physicality in the paint and elite defense. His heart makes up for his lack of size, as he’s drawn comparisons to legendary big man Ben Wallace.

]]>http://www.hoopsscoop.com/2015-nba-mock-draft/feed/02014 NBA Draft: Anthony Ireland Could be a Draft Day Stealhttp://www.hoopsscoop.com/anthony-ireland-draft-day-steal/
http://www.hoopsscoop.com/anthony-ireland-draft-day-steal/#respondFri, 06 Jun 2014 23:25:26 +0000http://www.hoopsscoop.com/?p=1512With elite point guards like Dante Exum and Marcus Smart headlining the draft, less notable floor generals have an uphill battle when it comes to warranting the attention they deserve. That much can be said about Loyola Marymount’s Anthony Ireland, who has officially declared for the draft after completing his senior season, an accomplishment that has become […]

]]>With elite point guards like Dante Exum and Marcus Smart headlining the draft, less notable floor generals have an uphill battle when it comes to warranting the attention they deserve.

That much can be said about Loyola Marymount’s Anthony Ireland, who has officially declared for the draft after completing his senior season, an accomplishment that has become more of a rarity in today’s crop of NBA players.

One thing that stands out immediately in Ireland’s game is his knack to drain buckets at will, evolving into the team’s go-to option on offense after leading the roster in scoring for the last 3 seasons with 18.3 points per game.

“Mentally I was getting better at the game, seeing different aspects and just gaining a better knowledge overall.” Ireland told HoopsScoop when asked about his offensive improvement. “As my sophomore year came along it became a lot easier for me to score despite the defense keying in on me. I just watched a lot of film and just realized how teams are playing me in certain situations.”

And although it appears that scoring is Ireland’s primary strength, he insists he’s more of a pass-first point guard that was converted into a scorer, since the team relied on him heavily to carry the offense for much of his collegiate career.

“The thing is, I’ve always been a natural passing point guard when I was in prep school, but when I came to LMU, I was asked to play a different role. It was good for me because I really developed as a player… but I feel like I’m definitely a leader and can play the point guard position like how it’s supposed to be run.”

With the draft approaching, Ireland is one point guard prospect to keep an eye on, as he’s drawn interest from several NBA franchises including the Nuggets, Mavericks, Clippers and Magic – all teams that could use a high quality backup point guard like Ireland.

When asked about the adversity of being a 5’10” floor general in the NBA Ireland responded, “My whole life there’s always been naysayers and someone telling me I can’t do this or can’t do that, but at each level I have always overcome that.”

]]>http://www.hoopsscoop.com/anthony-ireland-draft-day-steal/feed/0NBA Draft: Ta’Quan Zimmerman is the Most Underrated Combo Guardhttp://www.hoopsscoop.com/nba-draft-taquan-zimmerman-underrated-combo-guard-prospect/
http://www.hoopsscoop.com/nba-draft-taquan-zimmerman-underrated-combo-guard-prospect/#respondSun, 01 Jun 2014 23:05:27 +0000http://www.hoopsscoop.com/?p=1465Waterbury, Connecticut native Ta’Quan Zimmerman isn’t a name you hear being broadcast across the nation heading into the draft, but he deserves a closer look. The 6’3″ combo guard out of Thompson Rivers University has quietly worked his way into the spotlight of many NBA franchises after a whirlwind of transfers, going from Long Island to Iowa and […]

]]>Waterbury, Connecticut native Ta’Quan Zimmerman isn’t a name you hear being broadcast across the nation heading into the draft, but he deserves a closer look.

The 6’3″ combo guard out of Thompson Rivers University has quietly worked his way into the spotlight of many NBA franchises after a whirlwind of transfers, going from Long Island to Iowa and finally settling north of the border in Canada.

He averaged a league-high 19.6 points, 4.4 rebounds and 2.8 assists in his lone season with the Wolf Pack, leading the college to its first playoff appearance in school history and earning first team All-Canada West honors.

One thing that stands out immediately in Zimmerman’s game is his tendency to knock down deep three point shots consistently, as evident by his 45.2 percent shooting clip from downtown, which ranked first in the nation.

“I’m always going to work hard, knock down jumpshots and I want to do whatever I have to do to get on the floor,” Zimmerman tells HoopsScoop. “I have the ability to make plays with or without the ball and I feel like I can contribute to any team immediately.”

When asked who he’d compare his game to Zimmerman said, “I’ve been hearing a lot of comparisons to Pistons guard Rodney Stuckey, it’s not a bad comparison but I see myself more like a Kyle Lowry. I’m a strong stocky guard who can shoot the ball and finish strong inside when I find an opening.”

With the NBA Draft getting closer, Zimmerman is one prospect to look out for in the second round, as he’s recently drawn interest from a range of teams like the Spurs, Warriors, Magic and Sixers.

Checkout this mixtape showcasing highlights of his 2013-2014 season with Thompson Rivers University:

]]>http://www.hoopsscoop.com/nba-draft-taquan-zimmerman-underrated-combo-guard-prospect/feed/0Ranking Top Prospects in Final Fourhttp://www.hoopsscoop.com/ranking-top-prospects-final-four/
http://www.hoopsscoop.com/ranking-top-prospects-final-four/#respondMon, 31 Mar 2014 21:57:44 +0000http://www.hoopsscoop.com/?p=661As we head into the final weeks of March Madness, here’s a few prospects to keep an eye on in the Final Four that could end up being taken in this year’s draft. Sam Dekker, SF, Wisonsin The sophomore has been rather quiet in the NCAA Tournament, averaging a paltry 9.2 points on 40.7 percent […]

]]>As we head into the final weeks of March Madness, here’s a few prospects to keep an eye on in the Final Four that could end up being taken in this year’s draft.

Sam Dekker, SF, Wisonsin

The sophomore has been rather quiet in the NCAA Tournament, averaging a paltry 9.2 points on 40.7 percent shooting in four games. His draft stock has taken a dip in the last few weeks, so it’s essential he plays better if he hopes to get drafted in June.

Patric Young, PF/C, Florida

Florida’s defensive anchor was huge for the team on Saturday, collecting 10 points, 6 rebounds and 4 blocks against Dayton. The Gators need his toughness and physicality inside against Connecticut, so it’s imperative he remains out of foul trouble.

Shabazz Napier, PG, Connecticut

Napier has been scorching hot in the tournament, averaging 23.2 ppg on 47.3 percent shooting. There’s no denying he’s the reason the Huskies are in the Final Four, so they will definitely need another big game from him to get past the Florida Gators.

James Young, SG/SF, Kentucky

Young has had an up and down year, lighting up scoreboards one game and missing everything in sight the next. With Cauley-Stein doubtful for Saturday, the team will need more efficient play from him against Wisconsin to secure a W.

Julius Randle, PF, Kentucky

Randle is by far the most elite prospect in this group, projected to go in the lottery or even the top 5. He’s given his draft stock a huge boost throughout the tournament, leading the Wildcats to a surprising Final Four appearance.

]]>http://www.hoopsscoop.com/video-texas-cameron-ridley-hits-buzzer-beater-vs-asu/feed/0Which Prospects Have Something to Prove in the NCAA Tourney?http://www.hoopsscoop.com/prospects-something-prove-ncaa-tournament/
http://www.hoopsscoop.com/prospects-something-prove-ncaa-tournament/#respondThu, 20 Mar 2014 20:13:22 +0000http://www.hoopsscoop.com/?p=496March Madness can have a profound effect on NBA Draft Stocks, giving players the opportunity to shine on college basketball’s biggest stage and prove to teams that they can deliver in the clutch. As we head into the first round of the tourney, here’s a few prospects that have a chance to solidify their position in the […]

]]>March Madness can have a profound effect on NBA Draft Stocks, giving players the opportunity to shine on college basketball’s biggest stage and prove to teams that they can deliver in the clutch.

As we head into the first round of the tourney, here’s a few prospects that have a chance to solidify their position in the draft or potentially make a leap in the rankings.

Jabari Parker, Duke

For a small portion of the season Jabari Parker was unanimously heralded as the best option for the top pick.

Then came the emergence of Kansas freshman Joel Embiid as well as the re-emergence of Andrew Wiggins, causing the rankings for number one to vary across the board.

In order for Parker to gain some steam, he needs to prove to scouts he can still play like the best offensive player even in the NCAA tourney. If he can post numbers similar to the month of November when he averaged 23 points on 65% shooting, it should be enough to convince teams he’s worthy of the top pick.

Doug McDermott, Creighton

Even though he leads the NCAA in scoring, McDermott is still being passed offas a lottery pick in some mock drafts due to his below average athleticism and the uncertainty surrounding his future position.

But others aren’t so quick to overlook the senior just yet, seeing shades of an undersized Kevin Love after posting 12 30+ point games this season, including a 45 point display against Providence.

There’s no doubt McDermott is a bonafide scorer, but he needs to step up in the tournament this year after failing to get Creighton out of the first weekend of March Madness the past two years.

If he can succeed against tough competition and carry his team deep, he has a shot to boost his stock. If he can’t, it’s just another reason for teams to pass him up come draft time.

Marcus Smart, Oklahoma State

Smart’s flashes of in-game rage have put a huge dent in his draft value, with some GMs questioning whether he can handle the pressures of the NBA.

“His stock is going to take a hit,” one NBA general manager told Yahoo Sports. “He has shown in the past few months that he is prone to outbursts. He kicked a chair (against West Virginia). He’s under a lot of pressure. The team is not doing well, struggling.”

Smart needs to keep his cool and remain focused on leading his team to the promise land after an early exit last season. If he can remain effective as a floor general and prove to teams he’s not just a hot-head, there’s no doubt he could be a top 5 pick in the draft.

]]>http://www.hoopsscoop.com/prospects-something-prove-ncaa-tournament/feed/0UCLA’s Zach LaVine Rising Up Draft Boards Quicklyhttp://www.hoopsscoop.com/uclas-zach-lavine-rising-up-draft-boards-quickly/
http://www.hoopsscoop.com/uclas-zach-lavine-rising-up-draft-boards-quickly/#respondFri, 21 Feb 2014 08:10:43 +0000http://beta.hoopsscoop.com/?p=257With so much hype surrounding incoming freshman like Randle, Wiggins and Parker not too many people other than Bruins fanatics had Zach LaVine on their radar. The 6’5 combo guard from Bothell High School was known as a late-bloomer to scouts, failing to breakout until his senior year when he finished with averages of 28.5 […]

]]>With so much hype surrounding incoming freshman like Randle, Wiggins and Parker not too many people other than Bruins fanatics had Zach LaVine on their radar.

The 6’5 combo guard from Bothell High School was known as a late-bloomer to scouts, failing to breakout until his senior year when he finished with averages of 28.5 points and 2.5 assists.

Joining UCLA, LaVine was assigned to come off the bench while still adjusting to the offensive schemes of coach Steve Alford. And although it’s early in the season, so far he’s exceeded all expectations providing a huge scoring punch for the team’s second unit.

Through his first 12 games he’s averaging 13.8 points and has an impressive Per 40 of 21.4 points. More importantly he’s shooting extremely efficient from the floor knocking down 46.5% of his perimeter shots and shooting 58.9% on field goals.

Even with the Bruins’ plethora of talented guards like Kyle Anderson (13.8 PPG) and Jordan Adams (21.2 PPG), LaVine continues to find ways to generate points despite playing only 25.8 minutes a contest.

Other than his scoring skills, what has really drawn scouts in is his excellent ball handling ability, extreme athleticism and lightning quick speed.

In a recent game against Nevada he showed flashes of his true potential erupting for 21 points, draining 4 three pointers on 7-9 shooting and slamming down an assortment of high flying dunks. (video)

Virtually nowhere to be found on draft boards to start the season, LaVine is now in the running to be a top lottery pick, ranking No. 9 on Bleacher Report, No. 5 on nbadraft.net and is also listed as the No. 1 shooting guard prospect in the nation by Bleacher Report.

If LaVine can continue playing consistent basketball there’s no doubt at all he will be one of the top picks in an already star studded draft.

]]>http://www.hoopsscoop.com/uclas-zach-lavine-rising-up-draft-boards-quickly/feed/0Ranking 2014 NBA Draft Point Guard Prospectshttp://www.hoopsscoop.com/ranking-the-top-5-2014-nba-draft-point-guard-prospects/
http://www.hoopsscoop.com/ranking-the-top-5-2014-nba-draft-point-guard-prospects/#respondMon, 17 Feb 2014 03:20:33 +0000http://beta.hoopsscoop.com/?p=221Unless you’re living under a rock, by now you’ve heard about the 2014 NBA Draft and how it’s projected to be one of the best in history since 2004 (A.K.A the one that featured stars like Chris Bosh, Carmelo Anthony, LeBron James, etc.). Studs like Andrew Wiggins, Jabari Parker and Dante Exum already headline this […]

]]>Unless you’re living under a rock, by now you’ve heard about the 2014 NBA Draft and how it’s projected to be one of the best in history since 2004 (A.K.A the one that featured stars like Chris Bosh, Carmelo Anthony, LeBron James, etc.).

Studs like Andrew Wiggins, Jabari Parker and Dante Exum already headline this heavily stacked class, but more and more talent continues to emerge like Kansas big man Joel Embiid or Syracuse floor general Tyler Ennis.

With the draft still far away, a prospect’s stock could rise or fall over the next few months but for now let’s give our take on where players currently rank for their given position. Today’s segment will cover the top floor generals.

Anderson is a walking triple double that can take over games thanks to his immense stature and advanced ball handling skills. Many scouts are concerned with his slow-paced style of play but he’s proven so far that even the most versatile defenders can’t stop him from dictating a game at his own speed.

Nick Johnson, Arizona, 6’3”, Jr.

Literally nowhere to be found on draft boards to start the season, but rising up the rankings quickly thanks to his stellar play with Arizona. Currently he leads the team in scoring averaging 16.1 points in 31.5 minutes of action and has continued to shoot at a much more efficient clip compared to last season.

Tyler Ennis, Syracuse, 6’2”, Fr.

The Syracuse floor general doesn’t have stats that jump out at you and scream superstar, but his ability to take over games in the clutch is making NBA executives consider this kid to be one of the best freshman in the 2014 class.

Dante Exum, Australia, 6’6”, 18 years old

A lot of question marks surround the Australian phenom, but it’s still clear he’s very fluent on the offensive end if you watch some of his performances in the FIBA U19 World Championship. With his size and untapped potential there’s no doubt one team will use their draft pick on Exum, who’s drawing comparisons to stars like Michael-Carter Williams and Penny Hardaway.

Marcus Smart, Oklahoma State, 6’4”, Soph.

Some recent draft boards are putting Exum above Smart, but for now we’re giving the Oklahoma State Sooner the top ranking. The sophomore is a much safer pick when it comes to risk-reward, and brings quite a few skills to the table like leadership, offensive/defensive versatility and toughness that just can’t be taught.